TAMING OF THE SHREW... The main plot depicts the courtship of Petruchio and Katherina,the headstrong, obdurate shrew. Initially, Katherina is an unwilling participant in the relationship;however, Petruchio 'tames' her with various psychological torments, such as keeping her from eating and drinking, until she becomes a desirable, compliant, and obedient bride.The subplot features a competition between the suitors of Katherina's younger sister, Bianca, who is seen as the 'ideal' woman.